A Season of Transition

Sitting in Rachel's parents' living room, surrounded by family, we spent the evening sharing burdens, celebrating God's faithfulness, and praying together. Across from us sat Rachel's sister, Maria, and her husband, Jordan, who are faithfully planting a church in Marseille, France. As we talked, many of the same themes surfaced that seem to unite missionaries no matter where they serve—balancing work and ministry, trusting God to provide, loving people well, and pressing on when the work is hard.

Moments like these remind me of the power of the gospel.

The gospel doesn't merely reconcile sinners to God; it reconciles us to one another. Christ has made us family. Though our ministries are separated by thousands of miles and different cultures, we found ourselves carrying one another's burdens, rejoicing together over God's faithfulness, and praying earnestly for one another. As Paul wrote, "For the love of Christ compels us" (2 Corinthians 5:14). His love moves us toward sacrificial service, but it also compels us toward genuine relationships and deep care for His people.

That evening became a fitting picture of this season of transition.

After arriving in Michigan at the end of June, we've spent much of our time traveling, reconnecting with churches, meeting with dear friends, and continuing to raise the support needed to return to Zambia. Although transitions can be tiring, the Lord has graciously filled this one with encouragement.

One of our first stops was First Baptist Church of Washington, where we had the joy of worshiping alongside several friends from our days at Detroit Baptist Theological Seminary. Seeing former classmates faithfully serving Christ in different ministries reminded us that, although our callings look different, we are all laboring together for the same Kingdom.

From there we traveled to Ohio to worship with Salem Bible Church, Rachel's hometown church. We were greatly encouraged by Pastor Ben DeMar's faithful leadership and by the church's evident commitment to God's Word. It was a joy to share what the Lord is doing through the ministry in Zambia and to see another local church eager to participate in Christ's mission.

Our time in Ohio also gave us the opportunity to spend several precious days with Rachel's family. Beyond the sweet fellowship, one of the greatest blessings was praying with Jordan and Maria about the work God is doing in Marseille. Hearing about the challenges and joys of planting a church while balancing Jordan's tent-making work reminded us that the Lord is building His church all over the world through ordinary believers who faithfully persevere where He has placed them.

In Michigan, we've enjoyed reconnecting with many friends from Resurrection Church. One recurring thought has been just how quickly life moves. Children who were toddlers now seem grown. Families have welcomed new babies. The church continues to press forward in faithful ministry. Although we've been away, it has been a joy to step back into these friendships and be reminded that Christ continues building His church.

As we prepare for the next step, we would especially value your prayers. Rachel and I will soon be making a brief trip back to Zambia to complete some immigration-related requirements before our family's return. Please pray for safe travel, smooth logistics, and especially for Rachel, who is rapidly approaching her due date. We are trusting the Lord to sustain us through these final months as we eagerly anticipate both welcoming another child and, Lord willing, returning to Zambia to continue training pastors, strengthening local churches, and serving Christ's mission throughout Africa.

Thank you for praying, encouraging us, and partnering with us. The Lord has been remarkably faithful through every church, every conversation, every reunion, and every mile traveled. We continue to see that this mission has never belonged to us—it belongs to Christ, and He is faithfully gathering His people from every nation to Himself.